Jeanne Graves Terrell
January 26, 1943 - October 13, 2020

Jeanne Graves Terrell, 77, of Dripping Springs, TX, formerly of Hoxie, AR and Houston, TX, went to be with her Heavenly Father and joined her husband, her parents and older sister on October 13, 2020 in Dripping Springs, TX in the comfort of her home. She was born in Hoxie, AR on January 26, 1943 to Steve H. and Johanna H. Graves. Her family lived in Hoxie where she attended school, participating in many school and activities of the Baptist church. After her graduation from Hoxie High School in May 1961, her family relocated to Houston. Soon after arriving in Houston, she met Philip Terrell on a blind date, set up by her future brother in law. There were many dates to follow and they soon began to plan a future together, including attending St. Luke's Presbyterian Church. In early 1962, she began a 30 plus year career with the Texas Employment Commission as a Secretary. Jeanne married Phil on June 16, 1962 at St. Luke's Presbyterian Church. Together they raised 3 very active children, which she shuttled to many activities while continuing her career. In 1969, due to a corporate relocation for Phil with The Coastal Corporation, the family was relocated to Corpus Christi, TX, where Jeanne continued her career with TEC. Coastal relocated the family back to Houston in 1973 bringing Jeanne back to the Houston TEC office. She continued with TEC, serving at various Houston area offices in interviewer and supervisory positions. She ended her career with the State of Texas as a Supervisor II in March 1995, retiring to spend more time with the grandkids. After Phil retired in 1999, our parents relocated to Dripping Springs in 2001 where they became founding members of Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church, where Mom was involved with various church activities, and was a member of the "Groan-Ups" group. Mom was a voracious reader and had a thirst for knowledge, always encouraging her kids, grandkids and others to never stop learning. She was fiercely devoted and protective of all who were hers, regardless of whether you were blood or not, but especially of her children and grandchildren. Because of her strong family values, Mom loved any excuse for a family gathering where she always prepared enough food for an army while teaching anyone present her art of cooking. If you were present you were involved. Mom never needed an excuse to laugh or dance. She smiled easily and always had a twinkle in her eye. Her laughter could take anyone's frown and turn it into a smile. Many holiday gatherings included family, extended family, neighbors and strays her children brought home. She would travel back home to Hoxie for class reunions and enjoyed the time she spent with her old classmates and family there in recent years. She loved deeply and unconditionally and knew she was loved the same. Mom LIVED her "DASH" throughout her life from beginning to end. Those who knew her know what that little line is worth, and the world was a better place with her in it. While her earthly presence is no longer, she will live on in our hearts and minds until we meet again.
She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and older infant sister, Maida Anne and a great grandson. She is survived by her children Dayn, Wesley (Debbie), Leslie (Adrian) Rodriguez, six grandchildren and one great grandson. She is also survived by her sister, Joyce H. Trlicek, her brother in law, Smitty (Laurie) Terrell, sister in law, TeRisa Terrell Brown, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A special acknowledgment to her children, Debbie Terrell and Sandra McReynolds for the care given to Jeanne these last few years. Visitation will be 6 pm - 8 pm, Thursday, October 22, 2020 at Harrell Funeral Home in Dripping Springs, Hwy 290 W & 100 Heritage Dr., Austin. Funeral services will be 11 am on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church, 26650 RR 12, Dripping Springs. Burial will follow in Phillips Cemetery.
As an alternative to flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice.

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